Sarah Guirguis Rarely do you find a hairdresser who actually cares about your hair health journey but that is what really makes Hamo Mohsen stand out in his field. Instead of the common focus on quick, instant, short-term results, his salon culture values customer hair quality above all else, along with providing an environment where women feel revitalized and pampered. After winning Washwasha’s ‘Best Hairstylist Award’ again this year, we talked to him to find out more about his work style and his unchanging hair advice.
“During our childhoods, we dream of what we will be when we grow up. Most of us dream of becoming a movie star or a superhero, but as we grow older, our dreams can change, whether it’s because we have changed or the world told us our dreams need to change. My dream was always to become a hairstylist. What I think is particularly special about the beauty industry is that it allows women the chance to feel as beautiful as their star icons, and I think that is pretty wonderful.”
What is your approach when interacting with clients?
While any hairdresser has go-to products that clearly make a difference in how your hair looks, I like to always look at a client’s hair with a fresh lens. I start by diagnosing and determining exactly what your hair needs, then I move forward accordingly. This identification defines the rest of the process for me because I really prioritize keeping the hair as healthy as possible and making sure not to damage it; that’s why we usually go for the treatment route as a main approach.
For example, if a client has extreme damage and asks for a major hair bleach, it is my role to explain and convince her that it is best not to add more stress to her hair, and suggest to her other options. I’m thankful for building trust with my clients, and that they are mostly willing to hear me and take on my recommendations. I also take note of the client’s character to make sure the cut and the color we apply match her unique, natural personality. For me, this step is very valuable to my work, and it definitely helps it stand out. Word of mouth surely goes a long way in this field.
Do you have any hair care tips that you usually encourage your clients to follow?
Yes, I constantly tell them never to neglect getting the ends of their hair cut on a regular basis, at least every three months. I also encourage them to stick to one hairdresser because it’s good that they know your hair history and how to take the best care of your hair. Frequent followup is so important if you want to see real change in your hair quality; if you pay no attention to your hair for a long time, it can accumulate damage over time. Lastly, I recommend that they don’t wash their hair too often – maximum once or twice a week.
Are there certain ways you’ve learned to put a bride at ease on her big day?
It’s always a huge deal when I do a bride’s hair because it’s possibly the biggest day of her life and she’s entrusting me to be with her on that day. I always try my best to provide good company for stress relief, and I go over all the main details with her before the wedding so that she doesn’t have to worry about anything on the day of. I make sure she is very happy with the look we decide on beforehand and those prior meetings also help me figure out her personality, her preferences, her vision and the vibe she’s going for on her special day.
Do you have any advice for hairstylists who are just starting out?
I know many skilled and talented hairstylists who are not very well-known because they don’t pick the styles that best suit their clients. I always encourage them to study a lot, and when they do someone’s hair, to make sure they are personally satisfied with the look they accomplished. Always keep focus on the goal you’re going for, and there is no need to rush because the outcome has to be worth it. Also, don’t copy what someone else is doing; instead, you can get inspiration and only apply what works with your own technique.
How did it feel to style Mona Zaki and Carole Samaha’s hair for the Cairo International Film Festival this year?
I really enjoy working with stars I originally love as people. Of course, this includes Samira Said, Carole Samaha and Mona Zaki. I love doing their hair because they trust me and give me the space to be creative. That way, I am able to envision and offer something unique to their look.
Which are your favorite holiday looks?
I really like the ‘wet look’, soft waves and tight ponytails. It differs, of course, from one person to another, but I’m always into the understated looks that give you a classic and elegant effect. This happens to be the incoming hair trend that everyone is going for these days.
Rapid Fire Questions:
Long or short hair? Both!
Hair color trend that you like? Dark Sundae and Ash Brown. I would recommend these dark tones for the winter season.
Head accessories – yes or no? Absolutely! Sometimes we build the whole look based on the accessory and it becomes the main highlight.
If you were not a hairdresser, you would be… a painter.
